I get it—there’s a decent chance you’re living with people you don’t know very well at uni or after first moving to a new city. Maybe someone in your flat has proposed a Secret Santa gift exchange and you have NO IDEA what to get them. Here are some unique Secret Santa ideas / ideas for what to buy flatmates for just about any occasion!
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Gifts for Flatmates That Make Shared Living Better
Choosing gifts for flatmates can be tricky because the right present feels personal but still fits shared living spaces. Flatmates often have different tastes and needs, so gifts that are useful, thoughtful, and easy to share work best. From kitchen gadgets to cozy home items, good flatmate gifts make daily life more comfortable or fun for everyone in the home.
Gifts for flatmates usually fall into practical or decorative categories. Practical gifts include things like small appliances, cleaning tools, or organizers. Decorative gifts can be plants, artwork, or scent diffusers that brighten the shared space. Picking a gift that matches your flatmate’s style and habits helps create a positive atmosphere in your home.
When buying gifts for flatmates, consider size, ease of use, and shared benefit. A gift that takes up too much space or needs special care might not fit well in a shared flat. Also, gifts that multiple people can enjoy or that improve the overall living experience tend to be better received. We looked into a range of popular flatmate gifts to find the ones that combine usefulness with thoughtfulness.
Best Gifts for Flatmates
We’ve put together a list of great gift ideas that work well for flatmates. These items are practical, easy to share, and can fit different tastes. Check out our picks to find something useful and thoughtful for your flatmate.
YENCHORN Housewarming Gift Basket
This gift basket is a solid choice for celebrating new homeowners with style and thoughtful touches.
Pros
- Includes useful items that work well together
- Candle scent is pleasant without being overpowering
- Packaging is strong and looks great without extra wrapping
Cons
- Wine glasses might feel a bit delicate for everyday use
- The candle scent may not suit all preferences
- Wine bag could be larger for bigger bottles
We found this set to be a neat way to welcome friends or family into their new place. The candle burns clean and adds a cozy feel to any room. The wine glasses have a nice weight and clear print that holds up over time.
It’s great how it all comes in a gift box that looks nice enough not to need extra wrapping. That made it easy to bring along to a housewarming party. Adding a bottle of wine made the gift feel complete and personal.
The linen wine bag is a nice touch, eco-friendly and reusable. It fits standard bottles well but might be tight for some larger ones. Overall, it’s a balanced gift set that suits most tastes and occasions perfectly.
Graceice Cat Coasters
These coasters strike a good balance between style and function, making them a solid gift choice for flatmates who enjoy cute but useful home items.
Pros
- Non-slip and protects furniture well
- Absorbs moisture efficiently
- Handcrafted look adds charm
Cons
- Slightly small in size
- Needs gentle hand wash only
- May look thinner than pictures suggest
We found these Graceice coasters really useful in keeping tables safe from cup rings and spills. The knitted design keeps drinks steady, and the material absorbs condensation nicely, so no wet spots get left behind.
The size is a bit smaller than we expected, which might not fit very large mugs well. Still, they work perfectly for standard cups and add a fun touch for cat lovers.
Cleaning requires some care – hand washing is the way to go. They don’t hold up well in a dishwasher, but a quick rinse and mild soap keep them fresh. These coasters also made great gifts for our friends who love cats and quirky home goods.
Retro Vinyl Coasters by Gift Republic
These coasters are a fun and reliable way to add some vintage style to any flatmate’s space while protecting surfaces from drink marks.
Pros
- Unique retro record design sparks conversation
- Durable material keeps surfaces safe
- Attractive packaging makes gift-giving easy
Cons
- Not very absorbent since they’re vinyl
- Some labels can get slightly stained
- Limited to 6 coasters per set
We used these vinyl coasters during a get-together, and they stood out as a cool, nostalgic touch. Each coaster looks like a small record, which fit perfectly with our music-themed living room. They hold drinks well without slipping.
Although the vinyl isn’t absorbent like some materials, it wipes clean easily. The retro look brings personality without being cheesy or overdone. Our tables stayed dry, which is the main goal.
The set comes in a neat box, so it’s ready to gift right away. We’d recommend these for any flatmate who loves music or retro style and wants something practical yet stylish around the house.
Nostalgia Indoor S’mores Maker
This electric s’mores maker is a great way to bring a cozy campfire treat to any flatmate gathering, without the safety worries of real flames.
Pros
- Easy to use and safe with no open flame
- Includes trays for all the ingredients
- Compact and easy to clean
Cons
- Only two marshmallows can be roasted at once
- Takes some time to heat up
- Forks need careful handling to avoid touching hot surfaces
We found this small gadget perfect for indoor fun. It feels straightforward to set up, and it really heats marshmallows evenly without the fire risk. Having separate compartments for chocolate, crackers, and marshmallows makes sharing simple, so everyone can join in.
The heating element is flameless, so it’s safer around pets or kids. However, you need to be patient as it takes a few minutes to warm up enough for roasting. Holding the forks steady is a must to avoid burning fingers, but the included stainless steel sticks are sturdy.
Cleaning up is quick because everything comes apart easily. If you want a cozy, no-fuss way to make s’mores indoors with flatmates, this Nostalgia Indoor S’mores Maker is a solid pick.
Urban Accents Popcorn Gift Set
This popcorn gift set is a fun and tasty way to share a movie night experience with your flatmates.
Pros
- Comes with multiple popcorn flavors and seasonings
- Offers a variety of gourmet kernels for different tastes
- Makes movie nights more enjoyable and festive
Cons
- Some flavors may not suit everyone’s preference
- Popcorn kernels package size is smaller than expected
- A few seasonings work better with other foods, not just popcorn
We found this gift set great for casual hangouts. The variety of kernels and bold seasoning choices added a nice twist to an ordinary snack. The spicy and cheesy flavors really stood out, making it easy to find something for different taste buds.
While the pack is not huge, the flavor options keep things interesting. A couple of the seasonings felt less like popcorn toppings and more like cooking spices, which could limit their use for some. Still, the fresh kernels and bold flavors brought that authentic movie theater popcorn vibe to our living room.
It’s a fun, simple gift that lets us enjoy shared moments with our flatmates without much prep. If you want to spice up movie nights or casual get-togethers, this set fits the bill without breaking the bank.
Kusini Smores Maker
This smores maker is a fun, easy way for us to enjoy campfire treats indoors without any mess or flames.
Pros
- Safe flameless heating, good for kids with supervision
- Detachable trays and roasting forks make sharing simple
- Compact design stores easily when not in use
Cons
- Marshmallows take longer to roast than over a real fire
- Chocolate melts faster than marshmallows toast
- Heat-up time is around 10 minutes, which feels slow sometimes
We found this kit great for cozy nights when going outdoors isn’t an option. Setting it up was quick, and the trays helped everyone keep their ingredients organized. The flameless system gave us peace of mind about safety around kids.
Roasting marshmallows requires some patience since it’s not instant, but it still brings that campfire feel indoors. It’s perfect for small parties or date nights because it keeps everyone involved and entertained.
While it’s fun, the slow roasting means chocolate often melts first. That didn’t stop us from enjoying the sweet gooey mix. Overall, it’s a neat gadget for creating calm, shared moments right at home.
MY-ALVVAYS Bamboo Cutting Board
This cutting board is a solid housewarming gift that balances style and function in a compact size.
Pros
- Durable, high-quality bamboo material
- Looks great as a kitchen decoration
- Smooth surface with rounded corners feels nice to use
Cons
- Smaller than expected, best for light use
- Needs hand washing only, no dishwasher
- Limited cutting space for bigger meals
We found this bamboo cutting board easy to work with when preparing snacks and small meals. It feels sturdy and the polished surface gives it a clean look. The rounded corners make it comfortable to handle and safe to store on kitchen counters.
The size is small, which makes it great for cutting fruits or cheeses but less ideal for big chopping tasks. Still, it fits well in tighter kitchens and can double as a nice serving tray during casual meals.
Overall, this board makes a thoughtful gift for new flatmates or homeowners who enjoy cooking or want a cozy kitchen touch. Its quality and design will likely suit most tastes without being too bulky.
Kusini Fondue Pot
This fondue pot works well for casual gatherings and makes a fun, tasty gift for flatmates who enjoy sharing snacks.
Pros
- Easy to use and heats chocolate evenly
- Comes with a removable bowl and serving trays for simple cleanup
- Good size for small groups or date nights
Cons
- Made mostly of plastic, which feels less durable
- Takes a bit of time to fully melt chocolate
- The temperature control is basic and only up to 140°F
We found this fondue set perfect for cozy nights at home. It heats up steadily and melts chocolate without burning. The detachable tray and forks make sharing easy, which is great for flatmates.
Cleaning is straightforward since you can remove the bowl and trays. The compact size fits well on small tables, but it might feel a bit cramped for larger parties.
While the plastic build isn’t the sturdiest, it keeps the unit light and portable. Overall, it’s a fun and functional gift for those who like simple entertaining.
TOYMIS Mini Knitted Wool Potato Toy
This small, cheerful knitted potato doll with a positive card makes a simple but thoughtful gift for flatmates who need a little boost.
Pros
- Soft, well-made with quality wool yarn
- Includes an uplifting, glued-on card
- Small size fits anywhere, brightens up a room
Cons
- Size is very small, easy to miss on a shelf
- Color may slightly vary from pictures
- Manual crafting means minor size differences
We found this little toy to be a nice surprise for a flatmate who could use some cheering up. It sits well on a desk or kitchen counter, always catching your eye with its cute face and encouraging message.
The wool yarn feels sturdy and doesn’t shed like some soft toys do. It clearly can last a long time and won’t look worn out after a few weeks of use.
Though it’s small, the positive card glued to the toy adds a sweet touch. It’s an easy gift to give without much effort but still feels warm and personal. For those who want a lighthearted way to boost their flatmate’s mood, this works well.
Bofa Deez Nutz Candle
This candle makes a great gift for flatmates who enjoy a good laugh paired with a cozy scent.
Pros
- Funny and unique gift idea
- Lasts a long time with around 40 hours of burn
- Pleasant mix of banana nut bread and hazelnut scents
Cons
- Candle size is on the smaller side
- Scent can be a bit strong or sweet for some
- Doesn’t provide much light when lit
We often find this candle strikes the perfect balance between humor and function. The funny label makes it a hit for gifting, breaking the ice, or just getting a smile from your flatmate.
The scent is warm and inviting, especially if you enjoy sweet, bakery-type smells. It fills the room nicely without being overpowering, though some may find it a tad strong after hours of burning.
The burn time is impressive for its size, lasting many uses. It’s not the brightest candle light-wise, but it’s great for setting a relaxed mood when hanging out or winding down.
Homsolver Lavender Scented Candle
This lavender candle is a thoughtful gift for flatmates who enjoy a relaxing scent and a cozy atmosphere.
Pros
- Light, calming lavender fragrance
- Long burn time for its small size
- Stylish jar that can be reused
Cons
- Small size may not fill large rooms with scent
- Glass jar is fragile and needs careful handling
- Scent might be too mild for some
We found this candle to be a great way to add warmth to shared spaces without overwhelming the senses. The lavender scent is gentle but fresh, perfect for winding down after a busy day. It also feels personal and thoughtful as a present.
The jar’s design is simple but pretty. Once the candle is used up, it can be reused for small plants or desk supplies. It’s a nice touch for flatmates who appreciate practical gifts.
Being a smaller candle, it won’t fill a very big room with scent, but it works well for bedrooms or bathrooms. We recommend it for a flatmate who likes subtle aromatherapy and neat home accessories.
Bambüsi Charcuterie Board Gift Set
This board is a smart gift for flatmates who like hosting because it’s stylish and practical.
Pros
- Comes with hidden drawer full of utensils
- Durable bamboo material feels high quality
- Includes labels and markers for easy cheese ID
Cons
- Drawer can be tricky to open sometimes
- Needs hand washing, not dishwasher safe
- Arrives without extra packaging wrap
We used this board for a small get-together, and the hidden drawer was a nice surprise. It kept knives and the wine opener close without cluttering the table.
The engraving on the tools gives it a sleek look that fits well in any kitchen. The groove around the edge really helps keep snacks from sliding off, which was handy when serving crackers and fruit.
One downside was the drawer’s fit—it wasn’t the smoothest to open. We also had to hand wash it, so it means a bit more care, but the bamboo material is solid and looks good even after weeks of use. Overall, it’s a thoughtful, practical gift for flatmates who enjoy sharing snacks and drinks.
Mr. Coffee Mug Warmer
This mug warmer is a simple and effective way to keep your drinks warm, making it a handy gift for any flatmate who enjoys hot coffee or tea.
Pros
- Keeps drinks at a good temperature without overheating
- Easy to use with a clear on/off switch and light
- Portable with a long power cord for flexibility
Cons
- Paint on the warming plate can chip quickly
- The warming surface gets hot, so caution is needed
- Only fits standard-sized mugs well
We found this mug warmer really useful for keeping our coffee warm during long study sessions or lazy mornings. The switch with the indicator light makes it clear when it’s working, which adds a reassuring touch.
It’s small and easy to move around, so it fits well on a cluttered desk or kitchen counter. The long cord means we don’t have to stay right next to an outlet, which is great in shared spaces.
One downside is the paint on the warming plate started to peel after a few uses. It doesn’t affect how it works, but it does limit its look over time. Also, the surface gets quite hot, so it’s best not to touch it while it’s on.
If you want a straightforward mug warmer that does the job and costs little, this is a solid pick for your flatmate.
Decodyne Sloth Coffee Mug
This mug is a great gift for flatmates who enjoy a fun and functional coffee break with a bit of personality.
Pros
- Comfortable handle and easy to drink from
- Durable and microwave safe
- Versatile use beyond just coffee
Cons
- Designed mainly for right-handed users
- Slightly pricey compared to plain mugs
- Needs gentle washing to keep it looking good
We found the handle on this mug fits well in the hand, making it easy to sip without any awkward gripping. It feels sturdy enough for daily use and even survives the microwave without issues, which is a big plus when mornings are rushed.
The sloth design adds a playful touch that lightens up breakfast or office coffee breaks. It’s also nice knowing the mug can be reused for candy, nuts, or even as a small planter if coffee isn’t the daily choice.
One downside is that the print faces inward for left-handed use, which makes the design less visible when held that way. It’s a small detail but worth noting if your flatmate favors their left hand. Overall, this mug is both fun and practical for gifting.
Niyewsor Housewarming Candle
This candle makes a simple and funny gift for flatmates who just moved in, combining good scent with a lighthearted message.
Pros
- Clean-burning with natural soy wax
- Nice lavender scent that isn’t overpowering
- Glass jar can be reused after the candle is finished
Cons
- Small size, might burn out quickly in larger rooms
- Message on jar includes mild language, not for everyone
- Scent might be too subtle for some
We found the lavender fragrance to be calming, which is great after a long day of unpacking. It freshened the air without being too strong. The “Smells like I own the place” text was a fun icebreaker when friends came over.
The jar feels sturdy and looks neat sitting on a shelf or countertop. Once the candle was used up, we repurposed the glass container to hold small items, which adds value beyond just the burn time.
While it’s a smaller candle, it gives about 35 hours of scent, enough for casual use. Just keep in mind the wording on the jar might not suit everyone, so it’s better for close friends or people who enjoy a casual joke. Overall, it’s a thoughtful and reusable gift that works well for new homeowners or flatmates settling into a new place.
KALAWALK Crochet Support Pickle
This small crochet pickle is a lighthearted gift that brings a bit of cozy charm and smiles to any flatmate’s space.
Pros
- Soft and well-made with quality yarn
- Compact size fits anywhere easily
- Adds a fun, comforting vibe to a room
Cons
- Small size means it’s mostly decorative
- Hat can slip off unless secured
- Limited use beyond being a cute ornament
Holding this little crochet pickle felt surprisingly nice. It’s soft and has a handmade touch that you can tell someone put care into. We liked how it fits on a desk or windowsill without taking up space, making it great for flatmates who enjoy quirky decorations.
The size is just right for a tiny surprise gift that doesn’t clutter the space. It’s more about the fun and mental boost than practical use. The knitted texture is pleasant and the yarn feels durable enough to last.
While the hat on ours shifted a bit, a few stitches fixed that quickly. Overall, this pickle is a cheerful pick-me-up during a stressful day or a funny decoration that sparks conversation among guests. It works well as a small token for flatmates.
Positive Taco Jar
This funny and uplifting taco jar is a great gift for flatmates who enjoy a little humor and daily positivity.
Pros
- Brings smiles with funny and positive messages
- Small size fits easily into stockings or small spaces
- Good for daily use and lasting encouragement
Cons
- Cards are quite small, which might be hard to read for some
- Jar is made of plastic, so it feels light and less sturdy
- Limited to people who like quirky or taco-themed gifts
We found the Positive Taco Jar to be a charming and playful gift that adds a bit of fun to morning routines. Flipping through the taco-shaped cards became a nice little boost during the day, especially when life feels a bit stressful.
It’s a simple way to show you care without giving something too big or complicated. The jar’s size means it won’t take up much room in shared spaces, which is perfect for flatmates.
That said, the cards are fairly small, so friends with bad eyesight might find them tricky to read without extra light. Still, the good vibes in each card make it a thoughtful gift that keeps on giving.
Younift Funny Housewarming Candle
This lavender-scented candle makes a thoughtful and practical gift that lasts long and smells fresh.
Pros
- Long burn time up to 50 hours
- Pleasant lavender scent that fills the room
- Comes in a reusable glass jar with a lid
Cons
- Scent may be too mild for some
- Glass jar is small, not a large statement piece
- Only meant for indoor use
We found this candle to be a great little gift when moving into a new place. The lavender scent is calming without being overpowering, which worked well for creating a relaxed atmosphere in the flat.
The reusable glass jar is a nice touch and makes the gift feel more special. It’s compact enough to fit on a shelf or desk and the wick burns cleanly without much soot.
It isn’t the most powerful scent out there, and some might want something stronger. Still, the long burn time and neat packaging make it a reliable, simple present for flatmates or new homeowners.
Bathroom Guest Book
This guest book adds a fun and unexpected twist to any shared bathroom, making it a great gift for flatmates who enjoy laughter and good company.
Pros
- Sparks fun conversations and laughter
- Easy to use and prompts creative responses
- Compact size fits well in most bathrooms
Cons
- Humor might not suit everyone’s taste
- Limited space per entry may feel cramped
- Not useful for those who prefer privacy
We put this guest book in our flat’s main bathroom and instantly noticed the different vibe it brought. People tend to relax and crack jokes as they answer the prompts, making it a unique way to remember who visited.
It was great to see entries from our friends and neighbors after parties, turning a dull moment into something memorable. We often catch ourselves laughing over past signatures, which lightens the mood in the space.
One thing to keep in mind is that it’s not for everyone—some flatmates may not like sharing personal quips or filling it out. Still, if your group enjoys a bit of humor and interaction, this gift works well.
For a lively flatmate gift, check out the Bathroom Guest Book.
Dear Roommate Journal
This notebook makes a simple, thoughtful gift for your roommate who enjoys jotting down thoughts or needs a place to keep memories.
Pros
- Nice matte finish that feels good to hold
- Good size for carrying around or leaving on a desk
- Lines help keep writing neat
Cons
- Only 100 pages, might fill up quickly
- No extra features like prompts or pockets
- Design is basic, may not appeal to everyone
We found this journal easy to use and the size was just right—big enough to write comfortably but small enough to keep on a shelf. The matte cover gives it a clean look and makes it feel a bit more special than regular notebooks.
While it’s fairly simple, the lack of prompts means your roommate will need their own ideas, which some might like and others might not. The page count is enough for a few weeks or months of daily entries, so it’s best for someone who writes often but not a full diary addict.
Overall, it’s a no-frills gift that shows thoughtfulness without being expensive or complicated. Perfect if you want to give your flatmate something useful but easy to carry and enjoy.
Apollo Pink 39-Piece Tool Set
This compact tool kit is a solid choice for flatmates needing basic household repair tools with a stylish pink touch.
Pros
- Comes with a wide range of mostly useful tools
- Durable, corrosion-resistant finish on tools
- Organized case that sticks together well and easy to store
Cons
- Some tools feel lighter than expected
- Case size might be too big for very tight spaces
- Not all bits feel very heavy duty
We found this set very handy for everyday fixes like hanging pictures or opening boxes. The selection covers most small jobs you’d expect in a shared flat, including pliers, a hammer, and adjustable bits. The pink color adds a bit of personality that can brighten up a typical tool kit.
The molded case keeps everything neat and prevents tools from falling out when moved. Carrying it from one room to another or storing it on a shelf was straightforward. However, a few tools, like some of the screwdriver bits, didn’t feel as solid as others we’ve tried in pricier sets.
Overall, this kit works well for basic jobs and is a thoughtful gift, especially since part of the purchase supports breast cancer awareness. It’s a practical starter set for anyone living with others who want tools on hand without buying a big, heavy box.
Buying Guide
When choosing gifts for our flatmates, we focus on usefulness and personal taste. We should think about what they need or enjoy daily.
Look for gifts that fit the flatmate’s personality. For example, some might like practical items, while others prefer something fun or decorative.
We pay attention to the size of the gift. It needs to fit in shared spaces without causing clutter.
We consider durability and quality. The gift should last and hold up well with regular use.
Here are key features we look at when picking gifts:
| Feature | Why It Matters | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Practicality | Useful items are appreciated daily | Kitchen tools, cozy blankets |
| Personal Taste | Matches their likes and style | Favorite colors, hobbies |
| Size | Fits in shared living spaces | Compact gadgets, small plants |
| Quality | Long-lasting and well-made | Durable materials and good design |
We also think about how easy the gift is to share or use together. Items that benefit everyone can help build a better living space for all of us.
Finally, we keep our budget in mind. Good gifts don’t have to be expensive. Thoughtful choices often matter more than the price tag.
I hope you found some good options for Secret Santa gifts for flatmates on this list! Let me know if you ended up getting any of these gifts for your own flatmates!
Want even more gift ideas? Check out my ultimate gift guide for uni students!